Introduction
Dive into berry bliss with this Ultimate Strawberry Cake! Bursting with juicy sweetness in every scrumptious bite, it’s perfect for your next celebration or just because! Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a family gathering, or simply treating yourself, this delightful dessert is sure to impress everyone.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- For the Strawberry Reduction:
- 24 oz (680 g) fresh or frozen strawberries
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- For the Cake:
- 14 oz (397 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 oz (114 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 4 oz (114 g) vegetable oil
- 14 oz (397 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 8 oz (227 g) buttermilk, room temperature
- 4 oz (113 g) strawberry reduction
- For the Strawberry Frosting:
- 8 oz (227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 8 oz (227 g) cream cheese, softened
- 32 oz (907 g) powdered sugar
- 4 oz (113 g) strawberry reduction
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. First Things First: Let’s get that strawberry essence! In a saucepan, cook 24 oz of strawberries, 2 tbsp sugar, and 1 tbsp lemon juice over medium heat until reduced to a chunky jam. Cool and set aside to become the cake’s star player! 🌟
2. Cake Magic: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prep two 8” round cake pans with non-stick spray. In a bowl, whisk 14 oz flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt.
3. Mix It Up: Beat together 4 oz butter and 4 oz oil until smooth. Add 14 oz sugar and 1 tbsp vanilla, mixing until fluffy. One by one, beat in 4 eggs.
4. Blend & Fold: Alternate adding dry ingredients and 8 oz buttermilk to the mixture, starting and ending with flour. Fold in 4 oz of the cooled strawberry reduction for that berrylicious punch! 🍓
5. Bake Away: Divide the sweet batter between the pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let cool while we whip up some frosting fun!
6. Frosting Frenzy: Beat 8 oz butter and 8 oz cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 32 oz powdered sugar, and finally, swirl in the remaining 4 oz of strawberry reduction for pink perfection!
7. Assemble with Flair: Layer that cake with a generous spread of frosting in between, on top, and around. Go wild with strawberry decor for an extra touch! 🎂
Enjoy your ultimate strawberry cake and don’t forget to share your beautiful creations with others! 🎉🍰🥳
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Strawberry Reduction
In a saucepan, cook 24 oz of strawberries, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over medium heat until reduced to a chunky jam. Allow to cool and set aside. This strawberry reduction will be the star of the cake.
Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Cake Pans
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 8” round cake pans with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together 14 oz of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until combined.
Step 4: Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 oz of unsalted butter and 4 oz of vegetable oil until smooth. Add 14 oz of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is fluffy.
Step 5: Add Eggs
One by one, add 4 large eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and 8 oz of buttermilk to the batter, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
Step 7: Incorporate Strawberry Reduction
Fold in 4 oz of the cooled strawberry reduction into the cake batter for a delightful berry flavor.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool before frosting.
Step 9: Prepare Strawberry Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of unsalted butter and 8 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 32 oz of powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Finally, swirl in the remaining 4 oz of strawberry reduction for a beautiful pink frosting.
Step 10: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of strawberry frosting in between the layers, then top with the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake, and decorate with fresh strawberries if desired.
Notes
Tip for Strawberry Reduction
Make sure to cool the strawberry reduction completely before adding it to the cake batter and frosting for the best texture.
Serving Suggestion
This cake is perfect for celebrations or simply enjoying during a cozy afternoon with friends and family.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil.
Serving Size Information
Each decadent slice contains approximately 450 calories, making it a delightful treat for special occasions.
Cook techniques
Strawberry Reduction
Simmer fresh or frozen strawberries with sugar and lemon juice over medium heat until they thicken into a chunky jam consistency. This concentrated flavor will elevate your cake.
Proper Mixing
When combining wet and dry ingredients, alternate them to ensure even distribution. Start and end with the dry ingredients for a smoother batter.
Baking Process
Bake your cakes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. The cakes should spring back when lightly pressed.
Frosting Techniques
Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth before adding powdered sugar gradually to prevent lumps. Incorporate the strawberry reduction last for a harmonious blend of flavors and a pretty pink hue.
Cake Assembly
Layer your cakes with frosting between and around them. Don’t be afraid to add decorative touches with fresh strawberries for a visually appealing presentation.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries for the reduction?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well, just ensure to thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.
How can I tell if the cakes are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cakes are done.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cakes and refrigerate or freeze them. Frost before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can use milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar added, letting it sit for about 5 minutes to curdle.
How should I store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Strawberry Cake is a delightful treat bursting with flavor and perfect for any celebration. Enjoy the baking process and share your berry bliss!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake
Combine chocolate cake layers with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for a delightful twist.
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Use strawberry reduction in a cheesecake filling for a rich and creamy dessert.
Vanilla Strawberry Cupcakes
Infuse cupcakes with strawberry flavor and top with cream cheese frosting for individual treats.
Strawberry Smoothie Bowl
Blend strawberries with yogurt and top with granola for a refreshing breakfast or snack.
Strawberry Jam Cookies
Fill buttery cookies with strawberry jam for a sweet and satisfying dessert.
